■ Obey all traffic laws. As a road user you should always obey the pedestrian traffic laws to be safe on the road.

■ Use sidewalks or walk against the direction of traffic. If no sidewalks are present, walk against the direction of traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles.

■ Always use the crosswalk. The marked crosswalk at signalized intersections is the safest place to cross.

■ Look then look again. Look left, right, then left again before crossing.

■ Be visible. Wear bright colors and reflective accessories such as belts, clothes, wristbands and shoes.

www.AlertTodayFlorida.com

Walking Safety Tips

Funded by FDOT

♥ Lowers blood pressure. Exercise causes blood vessels to dilate, which reduces the pressure on blood vessel walls.

♥ Lowers cholesterol. Exercise lowers your choles-terol level, which decreases the risk to your heart.

♥ Strengthens heart and cardiovascular system. The elevated heart rate you get from walking will help lower your heart rate when you rest.

♥ Increases production of endorphins, improv-ing mental and physical health. Endorphins are the body’s natural way to decrease stress, helping you to relax, and people often find they feel bet-ter and sleep more soundly.

♥ Weight loss or weight maintenance. Studies have shown that walking regularly can help you lose weight, and keep unwanted pounds from returning.

www.FloridaHealth.gov

Health Benefits of Walking